The Telugu Desam Party’s impressive performance in the residuary State of Andhra Pradesh has raised the expectations of people and industry alike.
For winners like Kesineni Srinivas (Nani), who emerged victorious in the Vijayawada Lok Sabha (LS) constituency, making Vijayawada the capital tops their priorities.
Meanwhile, industry captains are of the view that focus should now be on infrastructure development in order to attract investments in the region.
Nani has the onerous task of contributing to the development of the new State. According to industry leaders, it is an opportunity to lay the foundation afresh for a forward-looking and progressive governance that addresses all sectors, particularly the industry.
Says Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Vijayawada Chapter chairman V.V.M. Krishna: “Industry is the growth engine of the State, driving the economy and employment. The leadership should explore all possibilities and engage public and private bodies for an inclusive and sustainable development.”
Also, an integrated growth model has been suggested for the development of the city, which is sandwiched between hills and river. Modernisation of the Gannavaram airport tops industry leaders’ agenda. According to them, an international airport will boost all facets of the industry, besides giving a fillip to hospitality and hotel industries. The new government can also promote medical tourism, which has the potential to generate revenue. Also, the IT industry will develop provided there is good air connectivity.
“The government should focus on developing the garment industry, which is presently not doing well. Furthermore, electronics and IT industries have good potential in the region, thanks to youth who are keen on pursuing careers in such fields,” says Efftronics Systems Pvt. Ltd. managing director D. Ramakrishna.
According to Nani, the city needs development on several fronts. “Flyovers at Benz Circle and near Kanaka Durga temple, completion of Inner Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, safe water supply in hilly areas and a separate railway zone for the Vijayawada region are some of the priorities,” he says.
